Fund A Cure with E’Nyjiah Tolbert and Katie & Keith Rasmussen | Breakthrough T1D Minneapolis Gala 2026

Bio

Hi, I’m E’nyjiah Tolbert. I’m 15 years old and was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at the age of seven.

Growing up with T1D came with a lot of challenges. I had to become more aware of my health at a very young age, and for a long time I struggled with the confidence to live with T1D. Learning how to manage it was one of the hardest parts. I was in the hospital several times each year until I was 12. During that time, my biological mother struggled to access the resources I needed to better manage my blood glucose levels. I think it’s okay to say that getting those resources isn’t as easy as it should be.

I was later placed with a foster family who is now my adoptive family. They have helped me not only manage my T1D, but also learn to take pride in it. Because of their support, I’ve found my voice and learned how to advocate for myself.

Now, during most of my T1D appointments, I’m the one advocating for my needs with my doctor. I still look to my parents for support, but being able to speak up for myself is a major step. When I first came to live with them, I didn’t say much and let them handle everything. Today, I feel confident asking questions, sharing my concerns, and taking an active role in my care.

The people I’m surrounded by have taught me that T1D does not determine who I am or what I can accomplish. It’s simply a part of me, and it’s helped me become a stronger, more aware, and more resilient person.

For the past five months, I’ve had the honor of serving as the Fund A Cure Leader for the Breakthrough T1D Minnesota and Dakotas Gala. I am so thankful to be part of this community. They welcomed me with open arms, supported me, and have given me the confidence and courage to embrace my journey with T1D.